The Columbus Soap Box Derby is returning this season. The event has a long history, beginning in 1933 in Dayton when a local newsman spotted boys racing homemade cars. The newsman copyrighted the name “Soap Box Derby” and soon partnered with Chevrolet as a sponsor.

In Columbus, racing was popular at Grandview Hill during the 1940s and 1950s. Competitors raced their cars down Grandview Avenue to finish along Riverside Drive while working within a $10 budget and without adult construction help. In a 1953 event, racers gathered at the Grandview Heights Municipal Building, and the race was broadcast on WCOL radio. That year, racer Pete Beckwith advanced to the national championship in Akron, where he competed against racers from other states.

A permanent racetrack was later built at Big Run Park in 1967. The local Championships are scheduled to be held this Saturday, June 14, at the park. For more detailed information, contact the Columbus Soap Box Derby Association.

Source: Columbus Library

Source Type: Library

Source Location: Columbus

Akron, OH

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